An adventurer on a snowshoe hike in the Meije region with Wildhartt.
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An adventurer on a snowshoe ascent in the Meije region.
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Splendid snow-covered views of the Meije region. Easily accessible on snowshoes with Wildhartt.
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Snowshoeing the Meije with Wildhartt.
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Photos of a room at the "Le Faranchin" hotel, the starting point for our snowshoe hike in the Meije region
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Photos of a room at the "Le Faranchin" hotel, base camp for our snowshoe trek in the Meije region
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The magnificent "le Faranchin" hotel, our base camp during this week of snowshoeing in the Meije region.
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A man on a snowshoeing expedition in the Ecrins with Wildhartt.
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Magnificent views of the Emparis plateau in the Meije region.
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The Fontenil valley in the Meije region during a Wildhartt expedition.
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A snowshoe hiker in the Meije region with Wildhartt.
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A man snowshoeing in the Ecrins.
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A motivated adventurer climbing on snowshoes in the Meije region.
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An adventurer on a snowshoe hike in the Meije region with Wildhartt.
An adventurer on a snowshoe ascent in the Meije region.
Splendid snow-covered views of the Meije region. Easily accessible on snowshoes with Wildhartt.
Snowshoeing the Meije with Wildhartt.
Photos of a room at the "Le Faranchin" hotel, the starting point for our snowshoe hike in the Meije region
Photos of a room at the "Le Faranchin" hotel, base camp for our snowshoe trek in the Meije region
The magnificent "le Faranchin" hotel, our base camp during this week of snowshoeing in the Meije region.
A man on a snowshoeing expedition in the Ecrins with Wildhartt.
Magnificent views of the Emparis plateau in the Meije region.
The Fontenil valley in the Meije region during a Wildhartt expedition.
A snowshoe hiker in the Meije region with Wildhartt.
A man snowshoeing in the Ecrins.
A motivated adventurer climbing on snowshoes in the Meije region.
View 7 departures

Snowshoeing

Snowshoe hikes facing the glaciers of La Meije

December to March
7 days| 6 nights
Level 2
Eco-score 4/5

What you will experience

Explore the southern balconies of the Meije, the Emparis plateau and the secret valleys of the Écrins, between hanging glaciers, red ridges and larch forests.
Progress on snowshoes to the rhythm of the chamois tracks, learn how to use the avalanche transceiver and probe, and experience a new kind of immersion in high-altitude terrain every day.
Accompanied by a guide with a passion for the mountains and wildlife, you'll learn to read the slopes, follow the signs and walk in safety.
Each evening, enjoy the warmth of your accommodation, a convivial meal and a homemade after-dinner drink as you recount the day's summits.
A small group to get a better look at the animals, create real bonds and walk at a common pace in a spirit of trust and camaraderie.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel

We meet in the afternoon at your accommodation in the Haute Romanche valley.

Take your time to settle in and meet the group. Around 6:30 pm, we’ll gather for a first friendly briefing with your mountain guide. It’s also a great moment to ask any questions and get in the mood. Then it’s time to enjoy a good dinner and a relaxed evening together.

DAY 2 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
510m
D+
510m
Activity time
6h30
Distance
7km

After breakfast, we get our gear: snowshoes, poles, avalanche transceivers, probes and shovels. Then off we go, straight from the hotel. It’s an easy and panoramic route, heading south with the glaciers of La Meije just in front of us. You’ll learn how to use snowshoe gear and spot signs of wildlife like chamois, deer or eagles. A perfect warm-up day.


DAY 3 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
850m
D+
850m
Activity time
8h
Distance
10km

After a short drive to the alpine village of Le Chazelet, we start climbing toward the legendary Emparis Plateau. This place is a gem: wide open views, southern exposure, and the snowy peaks of the Ecrins and Grandes Rousses all around. You'll earn the views, but it’s worth it. A big but beautiful day on snowshoes.

DAY 4 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
650m
D+
650m
Activity time
7h
Distance
8km

We head to the Cerces massif, also called the “little Dolomites” for its colorful rock faces. The snowshoe route climbs steadily to a ridge where ibex often hang out. Your guide will tell you about their habits and the mountain geology as we walk.A great mix of nature, learning, and snowy adventure.

DAY 5 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
600m
D+
600m
Activity time
6h30
Distance
7km

Let’s slow down a bit. Today’s hike is softer, with fewer climbs. We enter the wild heart of Ecrins National Park, snowshoeing through larch forests and open snowy clearings. This valley is home to chamois and birds of prey. We’ll take our time and enjoy the silence.

DAY 6 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
800m
D+
730m
Activity time
7h30
Distance
10km

This is our most alpine day. After a forested start, we reach the Côte Rouge ridge with amazing views. There’s more terrain variation here: gentle slopes, then steeper snowshoe sections and open ridgelines. We’ll cross to the Signal de La Grave before heading down to charming hamlets. Our vehicle will be waiting at the end point.

DAY 7 / 7
Accommodation
Hotel
D-
900m
D+
900m
Activity time
7h30
Distance
11km

Ready for the grand finale? This classic snowshoe hike leads us to a panoramic pass with 360° views: Monte Viso, the Meije, the Barre des Écrins and even Mont Blanc if the sky is clear. We move up through a quiet valley where ibex and golden eagles are often spotted. We’ll celebrate this last big day with a drink back at the lodge.


The guides who will lead your adventure

Guide Patrick - Mid Mountain Guide (MMG)

Patrick

Mid Mountain Guide (MMG)

FrenchFrench

Passionate about mountains and trail running, I’ve made the trails my playground. I’ll take you on a different kind of mountain adventure one that blends effort, enjoyment, and full immersion in nature. No race against time, just the right pace to progress with confidence.  


Trained as a Mountain guide and in alpine safety, I share my expertise to help you tackle climbs, descents, and endurance at altitude. Ready to hit the trails together?

Find out more about Patrick

What's included in the price

Included

Guiding : During these 6 days, you will be accompanied by Patrick: an experienced guide who will share his passion for the region with you.
Accommodation: You will spend the 6 nights in a shared room in a comfortable, authentic hotel.
Meals: All meals are included, from the first meal in the evening to breakfast on the last day. Every day, you'll have the chance to sample the tasty cuisine of the Ecrins.
Expedition equipment: Snowshoes and walking poles are provided for each participant. A safety kit (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) is also provided by your guide.

Not included

Transport to the meeting point
Your personal consumption in addition to what is initially planned.
Everything that is not included in "what is included".

What level should you expect

Level 2
  • You walk between 6 and 8 hours a day (including breaks), with 4 to 5 hours of actual progress.
  • The difference in altitude varies from 500 to 900 m per day, over an average distance of 8 to 11 km.
  • You carry a day pack (picnic, drink, clothes), so there's no need to carry a heavy, bulky bag.
  • The terrain is varied: mountain paths, sometimes steep or overhanging slopes, ridges and forests.
  • No technical experience is necessary, but it is important to be comfortable with mountain walking.
  • Each day is accompanied by an attentive guide, who adapts to the pace of the group and ensures your safety (avalanche equipment included).

Getting there

Start: Villar d'Arène (18h30)
End: Villar d'Arène (18h00)

Transport

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It is possible to travel by train to Grenoble station.


  • Departure station > Paris Gare de Lyon
  • Paris Gare de Lyon > Grenoble station (3h)


From there, take a bus to Villar-d'Arêne. Bus 55 to Briançon - Gare SNCF


  • Grenoble > Villar-d'Arêne (1h45)
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It is possible to get to Villar-d'Arêne by car.


If you don't have a car, you should know that we encourage car-pooling between participants by creating a WhatsApp group 15 days before departure: an opportunity to get to know each other before you even start your expedition!

How to register

1

Step 1

Choose your departure date and number of participants

2

Step 2

Book online by paying a deposit or the full amount directly. It is also possible to book by telephone by calling +32 474 97 09 38 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
  • If the minimum number of participants is reached, departure is confirmed!
  • If the minimum number of participants is not reached, we will give you a full refund.
Departure is confirmed 15 days in advance for adventures lasting more than 4 days. Departure is confirmed 7 days prior to departures of less than 4 days.
3

Step 3

In the case of a deposit, the remaining amount will be debited from your account before departure.

Your reviews

The opinions of our participants who have placed their trust in us

Frequently asked questions

What equipment do we need?

Once your registration has been confirmed, we'll send you a personalised roadbook for your trip containing all the practical information you need, including a list of equipment you'll need to take.

How comfortable are the rooms?

You'll sleep in a hotel, in a room shared with 3 other people. The beds will be comfortable and you'll have easy access to a shower.

Will I have to carry a rucksack on the various hikes?

Yes, you'll have to carry a rucksack on the various hikes. However, it will be very light, as you will only need to carry the equipment you need for the day.

What happens if there's no snow?

We are first and foremost hikers, and when the snow runs out we still ensure the departure of our trips. The atmosphere and the winter light are just right, and even if you have to wear snowshoes for a while or do without them sometimes, the scenery is still splendid. So make sure you have good walking shoes.

Are instalment payment options available?

Yes, that's right! At checkout, you can choose the Alma option to pay for your booking in 2x, 3x or 4x. All you have to do is select Alma at checkout and follow the instructions. It's simple, fast and secure.

Can I privatise this expedition for my group?

Yes, all our expeditions can be privatised for a group already formed, on the dates of your choice.

To make your request, go to the expedition that interests you and click on "Privatise the expedition". We'll take care of the rest!

What does the price of a Wildhartt adventure include?

At Wildhartt, transparency is essential. The price of your expedition reflects a clear breakdown of costs:


  • 30% for our guides, the mainstays of every adventure.
  • 35% for accommodation and meals, essential for your comfort.
  • 10% for equipment and transport, to guarantee safety and fluidity.
  • 25% for organisation and logistics, from first contact to the end of the expedition.


Our priority: to offer you a quality experience, with complete clarity.

Do you have any questions? Contact us.


What happens if the weather is bad?

At Wildhartt, nature is our playground, rain or shine. Rain, snow or wind: our guides adapt the itinerary, activities and accommodation to guarantee you the best possible experience.
Unless safety is at stake (storm, avalanche, flood...).


In this exceptional case, we can cancel an expedition, at least one week before departure.
If this happens:
→ You can postpone your adventure at no cost,
→ Or receive a full refund.


What kind of people usually join Wildhartt expeditions ?

You don’t need to be a top athlete or mountain expert to feel at home. Most Wildhartt participants are between 25 and 60 years old, with a balanced mix of women and men.


Many join solo or in small groups of two or three. They often live in cities and are looking for a meaningful brea some time to reconnect with nature, slow down, and enjoy something real.


They usually have a regular movement practice (hiking, running, yoga...), but not with a competitive mindset. They’re in good shape, but don’t necessarily have technical skills. What brings them together is a shared desire to disconnect, observe, learn, and experience nature in a more grounded, accessible way.


If that speaks to you, you'll feel right at home. The group spirit is kind and open, and the pace adapts to everyone.

Selected from 7 departures

From € 890 /pers.

Want to choose your own date with your own group?

Hassle-free from start to finish.

Full refund if departure is not confirmed
Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure
Instalment facility available

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